Seemor
Beard & BellyB+Worth Trying
6157 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660
· Gastropub
· 4.6/5 Google (661 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Cozy neighborhood gastropub known for excellent cheese curds, creative comfort food, and pies next door, with occasional saltiness, long waits, and premium burger pricing.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Beard & Belly delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality—particularly excellent cheese curds and burgers—paired with friendly, attentive service. However, inconsistent execution during rush periods and occasional seasoning misses prevent a higher grade, while the primarily local appeal keeps it from grade A territory. A reliable gastropub that excels at what it does without reaching exceptional distinction.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling in that friendly Edgewater way, with a bar that turns out well-made cocktails and staff who keep things moving. A diner summed it up: "We came for the burger and curds and left plotting our next slice of pie." Expect a neighborhood crowd, rotating beers, and a seasonal patio that makes sunny days feel extra comfortable. The cooking leans creative comfort food: smash-style burgers with house sauces, ethereal cheese curds, rich short rib poutine, and playful hand pies. Flavors are big and satisfying rather than fussy, though a few guests found items salty or a touch overcooked on busy nights. If you like a great pub dinner with craft beer and pie next door, this is your lane. Families do well here. Kids gravitate to mac and cheese, chili-mac, fries, and straightforward burgers, and there is a vegan chickpea sammich plus gluten-free buns for flexibility. No formal kids menu listed, but portions and approachable dishes make it easy to feed a picky eater.
At a Glance
- Best-in-area cheese curds with airy crunch and house ranch
- Juicy, saucy burgers and rich poutine satisfy comfort cravings
- Strong beer program and fun specials like Whiskey Wednesday
- Pricing can feel high for burgers and add-ons
- Occasional saltiness and slow tickets during rush
What Sets It Apart
- standout_cheese_curds
- adjacent_artisanal_pies
- comfort_food_with_craft_beer
What People Love
- That first bite of hot, crispy cheese curds
- House sauces that make the burgers pop
- Seasonal pies from next door
- Friendly bar service that is quick and attentive
- Neighborhood vibe that feels like a local hangout
Points of Concern
- Some diners reported overly salty dishes or overcooked burgers on busy nights
- Wait times and ticket pacing can lag during brunch and peak hours
- Burger pricing and substitutions can add up faster than expected
- Isolated cleanliness/safety incidents were addressed but unsettled a few guests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$36-54 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Order The Belly's Burger ($18) for value if Beard's seems rich
- Pair curds ($15) with a citrus-forward beer to cut richness
- Vegan diners: Curried Chickpea Salad Sandwich ($18) plus Simple Greens ($10)
- Gluten-free: Ask for GF buns and consider chili or salads
Perfect For
- Casual date with craft beers and shared curds
- Post-work burgers at the bar
- Laid-back family dinner on the patio
- Pie-and-burger crawl with friends
Location Insights
Area: Lively North Side corridor with a local, residential feel; mix of students, families, and longtime Chicagoans.
Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic on Broadway; typical urban conditions with occasional alley odors noted.
Nearby: Near Thorndale/Bryn Mawr Red Line stops, neighborhood bars, bakeries, and small shops; patio mentioned seasonally.
EdgewaterEdgewater offers a vibrant dining scene with a variety of ethnic cuisines and casual to upscale restaurants. The area is known for its welcoming atmosphere, walkability, and a blend of historic and modern influences, attracting locals who appreciate neighborhood charm with urban amenities.
AndersonvilleAndersonville is a distinct sub-area within Edgewater known for its strong Swedish heritage, boutique shopping, and a thriving food scene featuring innovative and locally sourced menus. It has a friendly, community-oriented vibe with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday10:00–23:00
Sunday10:00–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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